Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear

Sep 14

"This Is Me, Take Me As I Am" | Ann's Alopecia Journey

This episode is being shared during Alopecia Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, start conversations and shine a light on the real-life experiences of people living with hair loss. In this episode, I’m joined by Ann, who has lived with alopecia areata for decades. Ann first noticed a small patch of hair loss in her twenties. From there, her journey took her through years of hair growing back and falling out again, wearing wigs and hairpieces, losing her eyebrows and eyelashes, and trying to navigate the support and treatment available to her. Along the way, Ann experienced divorce, motherhood, grief, financial pressures and periods of immense stress — all while learning to live with a condition that could change without warning. But this is ultimately a story about resilience. After years of feeling that she had to manage her alopecia largely on her own, Anne discovered the power of community through local support groups and Alopecia UK. Connecting with others who truly understood what she was going through became a turning point. Today, Ann is much more open about her hair loss and has reached a place where she can confidently say: “This is me, take me as I am.” A heartfelt conversation about alopecia, identity, confidence, resilience, relationships and the importance of knowing that you are not alone. If you’re living with alopecia, supporting someone with hair loss, or simply want to understand more about the condition, Ann’s story is a powerful reminder that there is support and community out there. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Sep 7

Hair & Scalp Care with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Oily Scalps, Shampoo, Hair Thinning & Hair Loss – Part 2

Katie continues her conversation with trichologist Eva Proudman in part two of their discussion, recorded following an Instagram Live where Eva answered some really common questions. This episode follows up on some of those questions, covering everything from how often you really need to wash your hair and why an oily scalp shouldn't be ignored, to choosing the right shampoo and what “sulfate-free” actually means. Katie and Eva also discuss scalp health, seborrheic dermatitis, hormonal changes, menopause, PCOS, hair thinning and hair loss, as well as the role of antioxidants and oxidative stress in the hair follicle. Eva explains why washing your hair regularly isn't necessarily damaging, why treating the scalp is so important, and what to look for when choosing shampoo and conditioner. They also talk about Eva's Juniper Scalp Therapy Shampoo and the TricoTain Hair Retaining Shampoo and Conditioner, and where listeners can find them. If you're trying to understand an oily scalp, hair thinning, hair loss or simply what products are actually worth using, this episode is packed with practical advice. This is part two of Katie's conversation with Eva Proudman, trichologist. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Aug 31

Understanding Hair Loss with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Alopecia, Hair Thinning & Nutrition – Part 1

Hair loss can be frightening, confusing and incredibly emotional — but understanding what's happening is the first step. September is Alopecia Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to share this conversation again and help raise awareness and understanding around hair loss and alopecia. In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I’m joined by clinical trichologist Eva Proudman for a conversation about the basics of hair loss and thinning. This interview was originally recorded in September 2024 during Alopecia Awareness Month on Instagram, and there was so much valuable information in our conversation that I wanted to bring it to the podcast and YouTube. Eva talks about: • What a clinical trichologist actually does • What the word alopecia really means • Different types of hair loss and thinning • Male and female pattern hair loss • Telogen effluvium and excessive shedding • Autoimmune and scarring Alopecias • Why early diagnosis can make such a difference • The emotional impact of hair loss • Blood tests and what they can tell us • Iron, ferritin, vitamin D, B12 and thyroid levels • The importance of nutrition and protein • Why randomly taking supplements isn't always the answer • And why there is often more that can be done than people realise If you're experiencing hair loss yourself, or supporting someone who is, I hope this conversation gives you a little more understanding — and, most importantly, a little more hope. This is Part 1 of 2. Part 2 will be coming soon, where Eva answers some of the popular questions people ask about hair, scalp health and hair loss. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Aug 24

Alopecia, Men’s Mental Health & Finding Self-Acceptance | Dan Newman from Baldilocks

What is it really like to lose your hair as a man — particularly when the hair loss isn't something you expected? In this episode of Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear, Katie sits down with Dan Newman, founder of Baldilocks, for an incredibly honest conversation about living with alopecia, trauma, confidence, identity and mental health. Dan shares his experience of alopecia from childhood through to adulthood, including the impact that sudden and visible hair loss had on his confidence and sense of self. He talks about feeling isolated and misunderstood, a particularly difficult experience with his GP, and the point in his twenties when he finally decided to shave his head and begin accepting the things he couldn't control. Katie and Dan also explore the idea that hair loss is somehow “easier” for men, why that isn't true for everyone, and the importance of allowing people to experience hair loss in their own way. Dan explains how one encounter in a barber shop eventually became the inspiration for Baldilocks — a social enterprise focused on creating inclusive, welcoming spaces and wellness experiences for people living with hair loss. They discuss: • The emotional and psychological impact of alopecia • Why men need more space to talk about hair loss • Trauma, confidence and identity • The importance of being seen rather than looked at • How friends and family can support someone experiencing hair loss • Why humour became such an important part of Dan's journey • The inspiration and mission behind Baldilocks • Creating salons, barber shops and other spaces where people with hair loss feel welcome • Dan's advice to anyone currently struggling with their hair loss • The one thing Dan would tell his younger self And, of course, there's a quick-fire round covering resilience, confidence and what makes Dan laugh on difficult days! “A few bad experiences does not mean a bad life.” If you're experiencing alopecia or hair loss — or supporting someone who is — we hope this conversation reminds you that you aren't alone. Follow Dan / Baldilocks: Instagram: @Baldilocks.me Website: Baldilocks.me About Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear: Katie talks to people with lived experience of hair loss, alongside professionals and people working within the hair-loss community, to open up honest conversations about the emotional, practical and personal side of losing your hair. #Alopecia #HairLoss #AlopeciaAreata #MensMentalHealth #HairLossAwareness #Baldilocks #TalkingHairLoss #MentalHealth #SelfAcceptance #HairLossSupport If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Aug 17

Permanent Hair Loss After Chemotherapy | Shirley Ledley’s 20-Year Journey

In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I’m joined by Shirley Ledley to talk openly about her experience of permanent chemotherapy-induced hair loss and the journey that followed. It is important to know that this is rare and happened because of one type of chemotherapy and is one persons story. After being treated for breast cancer in 2005, Shirley discovered that her hair wasn’t growing back as expected following chemotherapy. What began as a devastating personal experience led her on a 20-year journey of raising awareness, supporting other women and campaigning for people to be properly informed about the potential risk of permanent hair loss. We talk about the emotional impact of losing your hair, informed consent, chemotherapy-induced alopecia, scalp cooling, finding the right wig and what it can mean to finally feel like yourself again. Shirley also shares how discovering a high-quality, custom-made human hair wig has changed the way she feels about herself and helped her move forward into a new chapter. This is an honest and incredibly powerful conversation about hair loss, identity, confidence and finding your way forward after treatment. Find Shirley on Instagram: @shirley.with.alopecia Shirley’s books: Naked in the Wind: Chemo, Hair Loss and Deceit and A Hair’s Whisper: From Cancer to the Courtroom If you or someone you know has experienced permanent hair loss following chemotherapy, I hope Shirley’s story helps you feel informed, understood and a little less alone. If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Aug 10

Mesh Integration, Hair Extensions & Hair Loss with Carly Flinn

Hair loss can affect confidence at any stage of life, but there are more solutions available than many people realise. In this episode of Talking Hair loss, Katie speaks with Carly Flinn from Rumours Hair & Beauty Salon about her own experience with traction alopecia and how it inspired her to specialise in hair extensions and mesh integration. They explore who mesh integration is suitable for, how it compares with extensions, wigs and toppers, the importance of expert consultations and aftercare, and why restoring confidence is at the heart of every transformation. An honest and informative conversation for anyone navigating hair loss or looking to understand the options available. Find out more on Carly Flinn on her Instagram @hairby_carlyflinn If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Aug 5

Natalie Jane Brooker on Alopecia, Wigs in Summer and Wig Prep for Vacation!

In this episode of Talking Hair Loss, I am joined by Natalie Jane Brooker from She Is Losing It for an honest, uplifting conversation about navigating hair loss, wigs, confidence and summer holidays. Natalie shares her own alopecia journey, from hiding her hair loss for years to finding the confidence to speak openly and support others. Together, Natalie and I explore practical ways to feel more comfortable in warmer weather—from choosing lighter wig styles and preparing for travel to packing essentials, protecting your scalp, and finding freedom in your own routine. This episode is full of real experience, useful advice and encouragement for anyone living with hair loss or wearing alternative hair. If you want to follow more on Natalie and her Alopecia journey you can find her on Instagram on _she_is_losing_it_ For video footage of this interview go to my You tube channel https://youtu.be/CKDs2LbXAXA If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Jun 29

From West End Wiggy to Hair Loss Specialist: Restoring Confidence One Client at a Time

In this episode, Jackie Wood from charity radio Vibe25 speaks with Katie, a former West End 'Wiggy' who transformed her career to specialise in supporting people experiencing hair loss. Katie shares her journey from hairdressing to becoming a specialist in hair loss solutions, emphasizing the importance of confidence in both performance and everyday life. She discusses the emotional impact of hair loss, particularly among women and teens. Katie explains her holistic approach to client care, ensuring that each individual feels supported and understood throughout their journey to restoration. In this conversation, Katie discusses the intricate relationship between hair loss, emotional well-being, She shares her personal journey and insights as a hair loss and wig consultant, emphasizing the importance of understanding different hair solutions and the emotional support needed during such transitions. The discussion also highlights the significance of education and community in navigating the challenges of hair loss. She discusses the evolution of wigs and hair loss solutions. They also touch on the realities of NHS wig provision and the importance of education and guidance when choosing hair solutions. Katie also highlights the significance of creating a comfortable environment for clients dealing with hair loss and provides resources for support. Whether you are personally experiencing hair loss, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in understanding this often-overlooked issue, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Key Topics Covered: Hair loss and emotional wellbeingBuilding confidence after hair lossSupporting teenagers experiencing hair lossStress-related hair loss and chronic sheddingUnderstanding wigs and hair replacement optionsNutrition, exercise, and holistic careCreating supportive communities for those affected by hair lossFinding purpose through helping othersNHS Provision If you need support with an Alopecia condition contact - https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ If you need support if you are going through treatment there are many amazing charities such as Macmillen and Maggies Charity. For wigs, products, help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ If you have a story that you think needs to be told or you are a client that I have seen in the past purchasing wigs and you feel safe in telling your journey of hair loss, do get in touch. Whether your hair loss is from going through treatment or an Alopecia condition, do get in touch. Email me at https://katiedear.co.uk/contact/ Lets try and get people out of the silence and get them talking about their hair loss condition. For wigs, products with help and Advice - https://katiedear.co.uk/ FOLLOW ME ON - IG: https://www.instagram.com/wigsatkatiedearltd/ LI:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiedearltd/ TkTk: https://www.tiktok.com/@katiedearltd FB : https://www.katiedearhairlossandwigconsultancy

Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear

"This Is Me, Take Me As I Am" | Ann's Alopecia Journey

Hair & Scalp Care with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Oily Scalps, Shampoo, Hair Thinning & Hair Loss – Part 2

Understanding Hair Loss with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Alopecia, Hair Thinning & Nutrition – Part 1

Alopecia, Men’s Mental Health & Finding Self-Acceptance | Dan Newman from Baldilocks

Permanent Hair Loss After Chemotherapy | Shirley Ledley’s 20-Year Journey

Mesh Integration, Hair Extensions & Hair Loss with Carly Flinn

Natalie Jane Brooker on Alopecia, Wigs in Summer and Wig Prep for Vacation!

From West End Wiggy to Hair Loss Specialist: Restoring Confidence One Client at a Time

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Talking Hair Loss with Katie Dear

Episodes

"This Is Me, Take Me As I Am" | Ann's Alopecia Journey

Hair & Scalp Care with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Oily Scalps, Shampoo, Hair Thinning & Hair Loss – Part 2

Understanding Hair Loss with Clinical Trichologist Eva Proudman | Alopecia, Hair Thinning & Nutrition – Part 1

Alopecia, Men’s Mental Health & Finding Self-Acceptance | Dan Newman from Baldilocks

Permanent Hair Loss After Chemotherapy | Shirley Ledley’s 20-Year Journey

Mesh Integration, Hair Extensions & Hair Loss with Carly Flinn

Natalie Jane Brooker on Alopecia, Wigs in Summer and Wig Prep for Vacation!

From West End Wiggy to Hair Loss Specialist: Restoring Confidence One Client at a Time

About

Information

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